NUTECH Holds Seminar to Strengthen Academic-Industry Connections Offering Valuable Learning Opportunities for Students, Academics and Professionals

Under the leadership of the Principal of NUTECH School of Applied Sciences and Humanities department (NUTECH), Dr. Faiza Jan Iftikhar organized a seminar titled “Recent Trends in Sustainable Energy Technologies and Materials”. The event aimed to address the pressing global challenges of energy crises, rising costs, and environmental sustainability, with a focus on green solutions. The seminar brought together international and national experts to explore innovative approaches to renewable energy, advanced materials, and the transition to a low-carbon future. As nations face severe environmental challenges, especially developing countries like Pakistan, the need for sustainable and reliable energy solutions has never been more urgent. The seminar’s focus was on advanced materials and energy production, emphasizing green technologies and strategies to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Professor Emmanuel I. Iwuoha from the University of Western Cape, South Africa, delivered an online speech, showcasing his research on electro-photovoltaic energy applications. He also offered insights on cutting-edge advancements for transformative change in the field of energy and smart materials for disease diagnostics. Dr. Ghulam Ali, Associate Professor at NUST, presented his research on sodium-ion batteries, particularly focusing on the crystal structure of NaFe₀.₅Mn₀.₅O₂ cathodes. He highlighted the increasing demand for sustainable batteries by 2030. Another keynote speaker, Dr. Saqib Nasir, Director (P & D)/Project Director STEM,PSF emphasized the importance of collaborative research in biofuel and bioenergy development, as well as projects related to environmental impact assessments and water resource management. Dr. Ali Turab Jafry Associate Professor of GIK Institute of Engineering Sciences & Technologies shared his insights on Sustainable Product Development and its transformative potential across industries emphasizing lifecycle thinking, renewable materials, and circular economy integration. The session ended with question-and-answer session.

The seminar explored breakthroughs in renewable energy systems, advanced photovoltaic materials, biofuels, and next-generation battery technologies as well as new pathways for integrating sustainability into product development across industries. It served as a pivotal platform for students, professionals, and academics to engage with the latest trends and advancements in sustainable energy, fostering collaboration and ensuring that emerging professionals are equipped with the knowledge and networks necessary to thrive in this crucial field.